Things to do in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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Region of France

Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

 Prefecture: Marseille

About the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region

Bathed in sun and light, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur embodies the Mediterranean art of living in all its splendour. The Côte d'Azur unfolds its glamour from Nice to Saint-Tropez, by way of Cannes and its festival, Antibes and the neighbouring principality of Monaco, between legendary beaches, palm trees and Belle Époque villas. The calanques of Marseille and Cassis, white-rock fjords plunging into turquoise water, offer striking panoramas.

The Provençal hinterland enchants with its lavender fields of the Valensole plateau, its perched villages of the Luberon such as Gordes and Roussillon, and the spectacular Verdon Gorges, the largest canyon in Europe, a paradise for kayaking and hiking. Further north, the Southern Alps make it possible to ski and hike just a few hours from the sea.

The region abounds in heritage: Aix-en-Provence and its fountains, Avignon and its Palais des Papes, Arles and its Roman monuments, the ancient sites and the artists' villages bear witness to a rich history. Colourful and fragrant Provençal markets, summer festivals and traditional celebrations punctuate local life.

Southern cuisine — bouillabaisse, ratatouille, olive oil, rosé and herbes de Provence — completes the experience. Between sea, mountains, ancient heritage and postcard landscapes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur ranks among the most popular destinations in France, ideal for sunny and unforgettable stays.

To discover Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, combine the Côte d'Azur, the Provençal hinterland and the Southern Alps. Summer is ideal for the sea, spring and autumn for the villages and lavender, winter for skiing. Swimming in the calanques of Cassis, walking in the lavender fields of Valensole, visiting the Palais des Papes in Avignon, hiking in the Verdon Gorges and strolling on the Promenade des Anglais in Nice punctuate the stay. What to do in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur according to the seasons? Sea, mountains, heritage and perched villages offer an endless choice. Ideal for sunny holidays, the region appeals to families, couples and lovers of nature and culture.
Departments Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (04)Hautes-Alpes (05)Alpes-Maritimes (06)Bouches-du-Rhône (13)Var (83)Vaucluse (84)
Population
5 218 960
Area
31 687 km²
Density
165 hab/km²
Departments
6
Towns
946
Prefecture
Marseille
Community score
91

In pictures

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Photos: travellers & Wikimedia Commons.

Latest community reviews

Liam S.Discoverer
United Kingdom
3 months ago

An unforgettable trip from start to finish. I visited the touristy district in Nice. An experience I would absolutely repeat. Local cuisine is truly exceptional. The old streets are full of character.

Gabriel V.Discoverer
France
3 months ago

Un cadre superbe et très reposant. J’ai visité le bord de l’eau à Marseille. Je recommande fortement cet endroit à tous les voyageurs. Les paysages sont magnifiques et très bien entretenus. On ressent une vraie atmosphère de détente et de confort.

Emily P.Discoverer
United States
4 months ago

An unforgettable trip from start to finish. I visited a traditional restaurant in Nice. The welcome is warm and authentic. Prices stay reasonable for the quality on offer. I highly recommend this destination.

Jade F.Discoverer
France
4 months ago

Un véritable coup de cœur. J’ai visité les quais à Nice. Le patrimoine culturel est impressionnant et riche. Les paysages sont magnifiques et très bien entretenus. Il y a beaucoup de choses à découvrir à pied.

Mia P.Discoverer
France
4 months ago

Un cadre superbe et très reposant. J’ai visité le quartier touristique à Marseille. Les paysages sont magnifiques et très bien entretenus. L’accueil des habitants est chaleureux et authentique. C’est un lieu parfait pour se détendre et profiter.

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